Extreme wealth inequality is a fissure running through every notion of liberal-democracy (and has been since 1776, when American slave-owners declared it self-evident that all men are created equal). Equality before the law ? Not if only the wealthy can afford to pursue cases, or the best lawyers. Equality of opportunity ? Not if only the wealthy can send their kids to exclusive schools, employ home tutors, etc. Free and fair elections ? Not if it's the wealthy that fund the political parties. Free press ? Not if the wealthy can buy up all the media.